Metal packaging

ABSTRACT

A packaging comprising a first and second outer part of metallic material, an inner part of non-metallic material made in one piece and comprising a first and second opposed side between which an element can be stored and a hinging part forming at least one hinge connecting said sides and allowing the sides to be rotated relative to each other within an angle so as to open the packaging and adapting the packaging and adapting the packaging for packing in an automated packing machine. At least a part of a perimeter of the first and second outer part is adapted to retain the inner part in order to attach said outer parts to said respective sides of said inner part for covering substantial part of the outer surfaces of the sides.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to metal packaging for storing elements,such as data-carrying elements like Compact Discs or DVDs, whichpackaging is adapted to be packed in automated packing machines forplastic packaging.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The CD and DVD industries have for decades invested substantial sums ofmoney in developing metal packaging. However, all these many effortshave not led to metal packaging, which is capable of being packed in thestandard automated packing machines commonly used in these industriesfor plastic packaging.

The total sum of investments in such automated packing machinery is hugeand the total number of packaging, produced in the CD- and DVD-industries, exceeds 5 billion pieces per year.

Metal as a component of packaging for CDs, DVDs and other forms of mediagives a large number of advantages, including supplying the packagingwith substantially additional strength and giving an exclusive look.Further advantages are that it is possible to emboss a surface reliefdirectly onto the surface and that it is easier to print on metalsurfaces.

However, as stated the CD- and DVD-industries have not been able toprovide a packaging that utilises these advantages, combined with theability of being packed in the automated packing machines in theindustries. The packing machines require that the packaging is openablelike a book with an angle of more than 180°, preferably 240°. An exampleof such a packing machine is shown in FIG. 25.

The common plastic CD- and DVD-packaging can be bent in that angle whichis needed in the process of inserting a printed paper cover between theactual packaging and the transparent foil wrapped around it. When theplastic packaging is bent 240° the transparent foil and the packagingwill separate and thus make space for the insertion of the printed papercover. The reason for this ability is that CD- and DVD-plastic packaginghas a hinge, which enables the sides of the packaging to be rotatedrelative to each other in order to open the packaging with an angle of,in principle, 360°.

Metal packaging developed so far does not have this ability, as suchpackaging cannot be opened like a book with an angle of more than 180° ,preferably 240°. Such as packaging is shown in FIG. 24.

The challenge has thus been to achieve that metal packaging will be ableto “act” like or emulate a plastic packaging in the automated packingmachines, e.g. that the metal packaging may be opened like a book withan angle of more than 180°, preferably 240°.

The demand in the market for such packaging is overwhelming, but thetechnical challenges even bigger. The reason for this is, as stated,that such packaging must be able to integrate different materials, i.e.metal and e.g. plastic. This requires that focus be put on thetolerances allowed when metal and plastic has to cooperate.

Until now no one has succeeded in creating the metal packaging, which is“perceived” by the automated packing machines as plastic packaging, i.e.which allows the metal packaging to open with an angle of more than180°, preferably 240° while still ensuring that the metal may cooperate,e.g. plastic.

Packaging adapted to store data carrying elements like CDs and DVDs areknown in the art.

EP 0 576 256 B1 discloses a package structure for a recording medium orother items and which is composed of a plastic support frame and alaminated flexible body.

EP 744 746 and EP 874 768 discloses systems comprising metal. However,these packaging systems can not be designed like a book due to thecharacteristics of the metal material.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,431,352 discloses a holder for CD's or DVD's including aplastic molded container sized to accommodate the disc. Along a side ofthe container on an inner wall thereof is a living hinge. The disc isremoved from or inserted into the holder by pressing against the sidesof the container so that a slit widens into a gap through which gap thedisc can pass. The sides of the holder cannot be separated.

WO 96/35628 discloses a composite package for use in storing a laser oroptically readable disc. The package includes a lightweight frame forstoring the disc, and the frame is encompassed by a sheath, which issecurely bonded to an exterior surface of the frame. The frame is madeof plastic and the sheath is made of a suitable flexible material, suchas paperboard, as it forms part of a hinge that requires highflexibility.

Other documents relating to storage/packing of media are U.S. Pat. No.6,220,431, EP 0 895 243, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,714,157, 5,908,109, 6,375,003,5,725,105, EP 0 671 743, WO 03/023783, EP 1 100 088, WO 00/74057, FR 2753 297, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,722,439, 5,477,961, EP 0 866 458, U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,788,068, 6,502,694 and US D473.520.

The common characteristics of these systems is that they can not bedesigned like a book with the ability to open with an angle of more than180°, preferably 240° due to the characteristics of i.a. the metalmaterial and thus cannot be packed in the automated packing machines.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a metal packaging,which overcomes the above mentioned disadvantages.

Thus, it is an object of the present invention to provide a metalpackaging which is adapted for and can be packed in traditionalautomated packing machines in order to avoid the need for investingadditional, very substantial sums of money in the development andimplementation of new automated packing machines.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide packaging forCD or DVD's having an improved strength and more exclusive look thanknown packaging.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Generally, in order to achieve the above mentioned objectives apackaging consisting of outer metal parts attached to an inner part ofnon-metallic material with a hinge for opening the packaging isprovided. This provides the freedom of design known from non-metalmaterial, such as plastic, and the strength and exclusivity of metal,while still allowing the packaging to be packed in automated packingmachine assemblies.

Thus, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to apackaging comprising;

a first and second outer part of metallic material,

an inner part of non-metallic material made in one piece and comprising;

-   -   a first and second opposed side between which an element can be        stored,    -   a hinging part forming at least one hinge connecting said sides        and allowing the sides to be rotated relative to each other        within an angle so as to open the packaging and adapting the        packaging for packing in an automated packing machine,

at least a part of a perimeter of the first and second outer part beingadapted to retain the inner part in order to attach said outer parts tosaid respective sides of said inner part for covering a substantial partof the outer surfaces of the sides.

Preferably, the width of the packaging is between 134 mm and 138 mm, andthe length of the packaging is between 188 mm and 194 mm when packagingis in a closed condition.

The width of the packaging is preferably between 280 mm and 286 mm in anopen condition where the sides are rotated 180° relative to each other.

The hinge preferably allows the sides to be rotated relative to eachother within an angle of 180° or more, such as 190° or 200° or 210° or220° or 230° or 240° or more than 240°.

The inner part of the packaging is preferably made in one piececomprising a first side and a second side interconnected by a hingingpart, which may comprise one or more hinges provided in groups or evenlydistributed.

The first and second side together defines a cavity in which the elementcan be stored. This provides the possibility of opening and closing thepackaging like a book with an angle of more than 180°, preferably 240°,which is essential in order to be packed in automated packing machines,which require that the two sides of the packaging must be opened like abook within an angle of more than 180°, preferably 240°. This ispossible for the packaging according to the invention, as the inner partand hinging part may be made of a flexible material, such as a flexibleplastic, enabling the sides to be bend backwards in an angle of morethan 180°, preferably 240°.

At least a part of a perimeter of the first and second outer parts maybe adapted to retain the inner part. At least a part of the perimeter ofthe first and second outer parts may comprise a curled edge portionand/or a flange extending transverse to a plane defined by a middle partof the parts. Accordingly, the inner part may be pressed into the firstand second outer parts and in order to be removed it must pass thecurled edge portion. It may be possible to provide the bend portion andthe curled edge portion by means of a punching machine or a deep drawingmachine. Such machines provide the possibility of making a part whereinat least a part of the perimeter of the part comprises said curled edgeportion and/or a flange extending transverse—or any other area of thepart. Said curl portion may be provided by step(s) of rolling the edge.The rolled curl portion may extend around the entire perimeter of theouter part(s) depending on the radius of curvature of the corners.

The curling of the outer part(s) ensure(s) that there are no sharp edgescontrary to known metal packaging.

In a preferred embodiment, the outer parts comprise shell-like membersconsisting of a middle part having upwardly extending sidewall(s) sothat the inner part is pressed into said shells. Preferably, thesidewall(s) terminate in a curled or slightly bend edge portion that isadapted to grip around corresponding edges of the inner part so as toretain the inner part.

The packaging is preferably quadrangular, and the shell-like memberscomprise upwardly extending sidewalls on at least three edges so thatthe shell substantially surrounds the sides of the inner part on atleast three sides.

In an embodiment, the first and second sides comprise indentations alonga perimeter for receiving corresponding protrusions provided on saidouter parts so as to provide the attachment between said sides and saidparts. Thus, the first and second part may be attached to the inner partby clicking them on.

The first and second part may be U-shaped such that the legs of the “U”define sidewalls of the parts, said sidewalls may comprise theprotrusions for attaching them to the inner part.

Alternatively or additionally, the inner part may be attached to thefirst and second part by means of glue and/or welding and/or at leastone snap-lock.

The inner part may be integrated with the first and second parts bymeans of inject-moulding. Thus the inner part may be moulded around thefirst and second part. This may be done by means of insert-mouldingwherein the outer parts are placed in the tool in which the moulding istaking place.

Other production processes may be suitable, such as blow-moulding,extrusion or thermo-moulding, depending on the desired design.

The first and second parts may be riveted or screwed to the inner partdepending on e.g. the type of advertisement that is preferred.

The outer parts may cover a part of or the whole outer surface of theinner part. In a preferred embodiment, the outer parts substantiallycover all the outer surfaces of the inner part. In the embodiment wherethe outer parts is U-shaped, they only cover a central part and twosides of the inner part.

It is preferred that the packaging can be closed in only one step notneeding any “post squeezing” on the locking parts. Therefore, thelocking part(s) are preferably arranged close to indentations, that isused to open and close the packaging like a book, in order to reduce theamount of force to close and to make sure that the packaging is closedin one step. Further, the outer part may be substantially thick and/orcomprise reinforcement ribs in order to provide a more stiff cover thatdoes not wrench when closing or opening the packaging.

The edge portion of the first and second part may extend around theentire edge of each of the two sides of the inner part, inclusive saidindentations used for opening. Thus, the indentations may be formed inmetal in order to provide a strong and stiff handgrip.

The inner part may comprise one or more locking pins provided asprotrusions so as to lock the first and second part to the inner part.Said pins are preferably provided on the inner part at a locationadjacent to said indentations of the first and second part (when theseparts are attached to the inner part). Thus, the pins may engage an edgeportion of the first and second part, respectively, in order to providea lock there between, and thus prevent that the first and second partsdetach from the inner part by accident.

In particular, a metal edge portion may be provided on the outer partsand which extends along the sides of the two sides of the inner part,which constitute the back edge of each side, i.e. the edge near thehinge area.

A back part of the inner part may compose the hinging part between thetwo sides, and the back part may be covered by a metal part/layer. Theback edge is preferably displaced inwards towards to internal area ofeach two sides of the inner part so that the back part be on level withthe outermost edge of the back side of the packaging when the packagingis closed. The metal part/layer covering the back part may be gluedthereto. Alternatively or additionally, the metal part/layer maycomprise slips that may be bent around an upper and lower edge of theback part in order to attach the metal part/layer. Edges of the metalpart/layer may be bent or curled so as to reinforce its stiffness. Themetal part/layer may be attached to the back part by insert mouldingand/or click-on means.

In a preferred embodiment, the hinging part comprises two hinges, onefor each side of the inner part. Preferably, the hinges each defines agroove extending inwardly on the backside of the packaging, the groovesbeing provided for clicking first and second outer parts onto the innerpart, as protrusions on each outer part may enter and engage thegrooves, respectively. Also the above-mentioned metal layer/partcovering the back part may be attached to the back part by click on.Preferably, the grooves extend along the entire length of the hinges sothat a corresponding curled or bent edge defining the protrusions on theouter parts and metal layer/part may extend along the entire lengththereof, which reinforces the parts/layer.

Furthermore, the grooves provides that any sharp edges on said outerparts and metal part/layer may be hidden or surrounded by said groove,and thus no sharp edges can be seen and touched.

When opening the packaging with an angle of 180°, the level of the backpart between the two hinges is preferably higher than the level of thetwo sides of the inner part. Thus, the back part is displaced inwards inrelation to the sides. This embodiment provides that the back part maybe displaced more inwards towards the internal of the packaging when thepackaging is closed, which then increases the strength and provides amore smooth finish where the inner part is better covered by the outermetal parts. The described embodiment is shown in FIG. 21.

When attaching the metal part/layer to the back part the combining oftwo materials requires certain precautions such as choosing the adequatemeans of attachment such as an adhesive such as glue and facilitatingthe co-operation of the two materials.

In a preferred embodiment the metal part/layer is thus not covering thewhole of the back part, and thereby allowing the back part to changedimensions without the metal part/layer becoming inadequately sized, andthe means of attachment such as an adhesive such as glue is choozen froma range of means, which are capable of absorbing the different reactionsof the two materials under various circumstances such as climaticcircumstances.

Preferably, the means of attachment is a glue, which may be“double-sided” adhesive such as TESA 4965 and/or 3M 9088FL. However, anyglue or other adhesive, which are capable of absorbing the differentreactions of the two materials under various circumstances may be used.

In another embodiment, the back part may be labelled by in-mouldlabelling.

Preferably, the packaging comprises guiding members for providing thatthe step of closing is done in a controlled manner avoiding the twosides of the packaging from displacing in relation to each other. Theguiding members may comprise a male member having a tapered end (such asa conical end) that engages into a female member. Said guiding membersmay be positioned in the corners of the inner part, so that they alsoprovide a reinforcement of the corners of the packaging. Thus, thecorners of the first and second outer part may not be dented if thepackaging is dropped.

In another embodiment, the guiding members are provided adjacent to thecorners first meeting each other when closing the packaging. The guidingmembers comprise one or more protrusions provided on one of said sidesand being of adapted to engage grooves provided on the opposite side.

Preferably, there is a space between the inner part and the first and/orsecond outer part (such as 0.5 mm) so as to provide space for aninwardly extending embossing relief in the inner side(s) of the outerpart(s) and/or an outwardly extending embossing relief in the outerside(s) of the inner part(s). The space may be obtained bycountersinking at least a part of the inner part when moulding it. If anembossing relief must extend outwardly in the outer part, then the partcontaining said relief might be countersunk prior to emboss so that thepackaging can be stacked on each other though embossing is provided inthe surface.

There may also be an embossing relief on the inner sides of the innerparts.

The inner part and/or the first and/or second outer part may serve as alock adapted to lock the book-like packaging. This lock may be operablewith one hand or two hands may be used to open the book and therebyunlock the packaging. The inner part of the packaging may be providedwith a locking part such that the first and second side may be lockedtogether. Such a locking part may comprise magnets, which hold the firstand second side together. In other embodiments the locking part is asnap-lock or a lock which requires a key or a lock which only can beopened once where after it can not be locked again. The locking partsmay comprise a male locking member engageable with a female lockingmember.

The first and second outer part may cover at least the central part ofthe outer surface of the inner part, and the outer surface of the innerpart may comprise recesses having a shape and depth substantiallycorresponding to the shape and thickness of the outer parts,respectively. Thus, the outer parts may be attached to the inner part sothat the outermost surface of the outer part is levelled with theoutermost surface of the inner part.

The shape of the first and second outer parts are preferably provided bybending or extruding or deep drawing.

The inner part may comprise one or more protrusions extending inwardlyin the packaging. Protrusions may be provided on one side of the innerpart, and which pushes the element(s) towards an opposite side of theinner part, when the packaging is closed. Thus, the element is even morefixated in the packaging. Preferably, the protrusions are positioned onthe inner part in the hinge area and also in the area near the edge ofthe inner part near the locking parts.

The first and second outer parts comprise a metallic material. E.g. theouter part may be a composite comprising reinforcing metal elementsand/or fibre material. In some embodiments the outer parts are all madeof the same material while in other embodiments the outer parts are eachmade of a different material. E.g. the outer part may be made of a metaland/or alloy comprising aluminium and/or bronze and/or steel and/orstainless steel and/or iron and/or magnesium and/or titanium and/orcopper and/or nickel and/or zinc and/or silver and/or gold and/orplatinum and/or sheet metal and/or tinplate or a combination hereof.

A layer of metallic or non-metallic material may be provided on theouter part(s) which in such embodiments may be made of foil, cardboard,paperboard, veneer, polymer, textiles or laminates of foil.

One embodiment may comprise a metal layer on the outside of thepackaging. As an example the layer may be a gold layer having adecorative effect. The metal layer may be polished or grinded.

The inner and/or outer surface of the first and second parts could insome embodiments be covered/coated by a protective layer and/or adecorative layer e.g. comprising colours. The protective layer may be incontact with the outer parts or it may be in contact with the decorativelayer. The protective layer and/or the decorative layer may cover thewhole and or a part of the inner and/or outer surface. The layer may bemetallic or non-metallic.

The inner part comprises a non-metallic material. E.g. the innermaterial may be made of paper and/or cardboard and/or rubber and/or woodand/or leather and/or silicone and/or plastic (polymer), such as PP, PA,PMMA, PC, PELD, PEHD, PET or elastomers or polymers or rubber or anycombination thereof.

In some embodiments the inner part may comprise one part made of oneplastic or other non-metallic material while another inner part—e.g. thehinging part—is made of another non-metallic material such aspolypropylene.

The element may be welded together with at least a part of the innerpart and/or the first and/or second outer part(s). Thus in order to usethe element for the first time the welded area must be raptured and thismakes it possible to see that the element had been used at least once.The packaging may comprise one or more boxes.

At least a part of the inner part may be shaped so as to engage at leasta part of the at least one element in the packaging. E.g. a part of theinner part may have the same or substantially the same shape as theelement such that the element fits into the inner part. The shape of theinner part may be the complementary shape of the element, i.e. if theelement has a round shape, then a round hole may be provided a part ofthe packaging and the round shape then fits into the round hole.

When the element is placed in the packaging it can then be fixated suchthat it does not move around in the packaging when said packaging ismoved from one place to another or when the packaging is shaken. Theinner part and/or the first and second outer parts may comprise meansadapted to engage the element by means of snap-locks or other locks.Such other locks could be locks, which require a key in order to lockand/or un-lock. The lock could also be of the kind, which must be partlydamaged in order to remove the element. This makes it possible to see ifthe element has ever been removed from the packaging. In someembodiments the element may be replaced while in others it is notpossible to replace the element.

In one embodiment at least a part of the inner part is shaped so as toretain at least one element in the packaging in a predeterminedposition. The inner element could be shaped such that only a part of theelement is retained in a predetermined position. E.g. the inner part maycomprise a round protruding element which is adapted to engage a roundhole in the element. Such an element could be a CD and/or a DVD or anyother data-carrying element having a similar hole and shape or any otherdata-carrying element.

The inner part of the packaging may comprise an retaining member adaptedto be moved between an retaining position wherein it retains the elementin a predetermined position and a non-retaining position wherein theelement is not retained. The retaining member may be shaped such that itengages a hole in the element. Thus the retaining member may have ashape which is complementary the shape of the sides of the hole, i.e. ifthe hole is circular then the retaining member may comprise two partswhich are shaped as half-circles. When an object or a finger appliespressure to the two half-circles the retaining member may be moved outof engagement as it is moved into the non-retaining position. When theretaining member is in the non-retaining position, the element may beremoved.

The inner part may comprise more than one retaining member, such as oneon each of the sides of the inner part. Thus, the packaging may storeone, two, three or more elements, such as CD's or DVD's.

In another embodiment, the inner part may comprise a retaining memberhaving a plurality of retaining taps adjacently arranged on a circle andsurrounding a “release tap” and adapted to engage the edge of a hole ofa CD or DVD. The taps are positioned elevated in relation to the innerpart, so that the taps may disengage said hole by pushing downwards onthe release tap and thereby releasing the CD or DVD from the taps.Preferably, the taps are adapted to retain one, two or three CD's orDVD's stacked on each other. The packaging may comprise more than onesuch retaining member, such as two, e.g. one positioned on each side ofthe inner part.

When the retaining member is in the retaining position it may bepossible to insert an object underneath the retaining member between theretaining member and the inner part and/or one of the first and secondouter parts. If an object is inserted it may not be possible to move theretaining member towards the non-retaining position. This results in asituation wherein it is not possible to remove the element. Accordinglythe packaging may in one embodiment comprise a security member adaptedto retain the retaining member in the retaining position.

The security member may be shaped such that the packaging must be openedin order to access the security member. One advantage of such apackaging is that if the packaging is supplied with means for detectingwhether or not the packaging has ever been opened, then one will knowthat if the product has not been opened then the security member will bepresent in the packaging. In other embodiments the security member canbe inserted from the exterior of the packaging. Thus it is possible fora shop to insert the security member e.g. on arrival of the product.This makes it possible for a shop to use a security system of their ownchoice. Thus a shop is not forced to use the security member supplied bythe supplier. The security member may be of the type described in USD468 621.

In some embodiments the security member comprises signal emitting means.Such signal emitting means could be adapted to emit electromagneticsignals and/or magnetic fields. Thus when the packaging is moved out ofa specific area e.g. out between two signal detecting means, it ispossible to activate an alarm. As at least a part of the packaging ismade of a metal material it is essential that the packaging does notshield the magnetic field and/or the electromagnetic signals. This maybe done by removing the metal from an area such that the remaining metalis so thin that it is possible for the fields/signals to pass throughthe metal surface. In other embodiments an antenna may be provided. Theantenna may be adapted to transmit the fields/signals from the inside ofthe packaging to the outside. In some embodiments the first and/orsecond outer part serves as the antenna and thus the ability of themetal part to transmit fields/signals may be utilised.

A part of the at least one of the elements can be integrated in theinner part. As an example a sleeve or cover of a book may be a part ofthe inner part. Such an integrated part may be separated from the restof the inner part by a weakened line, which makes it possible to removethe integrated part by tearing it out or pushing it out of the innerpart. The inner part may furthermore comprise means to retain such anelement, which originally has been an integrated part of the inner part.

In some embodiments a foil is provided in the inner part and the foilmust be removed in order to access the element. The removed foil maycomprise information about the product in the packaging and thus meansfor holding the foil after removal can be provided e.g. in such a waythat it is viewable from the outside of the packaging. The foil may bemade such that it is possible to place it in a laser printer and thus itis possible to print information on the surface e.g. about music storedon an optical storage disc kept in the packaging.

At least a part of the inner part may be slidable in relation to thefirst and second outer part and/or other inner parts. The slidable partcan be slidable between a protected position wherein it is stored in thepackaging and an accessible position wherein it has been slided out ofthe packaging and thus is accessible. Such a slidable part couldcomprise a protruding part adapted to engage the stored element. Theslidable part may be rotated out of the packaging. A plurality ofslidable and/or rotatable parts may be provided in the packaging.

In some embodiments the inner part and/or the first and second outerparts may comprise magnetic properties. The magnetic properties make itpossible to retain the element by means of a magnetic force. E.g. anoptical storage medium made of a metal material which is attractable bythe force of a magnet may be retained in a predetermined position. As anexample the slidable part may be made of a plastic material comprisingmagnets in certain positions and when the part is slided out of thepackaging the disc may be placed on the slidable part which holds theoptical element by means of the magnets.

In one embodiment the stored element comprises an optical orelectronical medium, such as an optical or electronical mediumcomprising a central hole. The diameter of the stored element may bebetween 119.7 and 120.3 millimetres or between 78.8 and 80.2millimetres. In some embodiments the diameter of the element is between10 and 500 millimetres, such as between 5 and 300 millimetres such asbetween 10 and 250 millimetres, such as between 20 and 200 millimetressuch as between 50 and 150 millimetres, such as between 75 and 125millimetres. The diameter of the centre hole of the optical storagemedium may be between 15.25 and 15.35 millimetres or between 15.3 and15.4 millimetres. In other embodiments the diameter of the centre holeis between 1 and 50 millimetres, such as between 5 and 25 millimetres,such as between 10 and 15 millimetres.

At least one side of the inner part may comprise a fixture for a CD(s).The fixture may engage the CD(s) in the centre hole or the outer edge ofthe disc.

A first outer dimension of the packaging may be between 135.1 and 136.8millimetres. The first outer dimension may be the width of thepackaging. A second outer dimension of the packaging may be between190.2 and 192.0 millimetres. The second outer dimension may be thelength of the packaging. A third outer dimension of the packaging may bebetween 14.7 and 15.3 millimetres. The third outer dimension may be thethickness of the packaging. In particular, the first and seconddimension is important for the packaging in order to be packed in atraditional automated packing machine.

The automated packing machine will typically be of the type calledIlsemann KVD-30, Kyoto DVD100 and GIMA DVD872.

In some embodiments the first and/or the second and/or the third outerdimension is/are between 10 and 5000 millimetres, such as between 25 and3000 millimetres, such as between 50 and 2000 millimetres, such asbetween 75 and 1500 millimetres, such as between 100 and 1250millimetres such as between 150 and 1000 millimetres, such as between175 and 750 millimetres, such as between 200 and 500 millimetres, suchas between 300 and 400 millimetres.

However, in an alternative embodiment, the first outer dimension may bebetween 124.6 and 125.0 millimetres and/or a second outer dimension maybe between 142.2 and 142.6 millimetres and/or a third outer dimensioncould be between 6.9 and 7.1 millimetres or between 10.2 and 10.6millimetres. Such an embodiment may also be packed in an automatedpacking machine.

In some embodiments the first and/or second outer parts may comprise adecoration. The decoration may contain text, pictures, figures, drawingetc. and could contain information about the content of the packaging.If the content is a data-carrying medium the decoration may give detailsabout the songs, files or movies contained on the medium. The decorationmay cover all or a part of the packaging. Preferably, each side of thefirst and/or second outer part is decorated, so that decorations appearon both the inner and outer side of the packaging. The inner part is inthis embodiment transparent in order to make the decoration on the innerside visible. This combination allows for unique possibilities ofdecorations and thus visual effects on the packaging.

One embodiment of the present invention may comprise a surface relief onan inner or outer surface of the packaging. Such a surface relief may bea hologram, a grating, a picture or any other kind of surface relief.The surface relief may be used for security purposes as it may prove thegenuineness of the product. The surface relief may serve asidentification of the product or as price information. The hologram maybe readable for an optical reader and thus form part of an informationpackage comprised in the packaging. The surface relief may be embossedin the surface of the first and/or second outer part. The process ofembossing may be done by means of a roller or a stamping process.

The packaging may on a top or bottom edge be provided with embossedsurface relief indicating the contents of the packaging, e.g. the nameof the composer and the title of a data-carrying medium. Thus, thepackaging can be distinguished from other packaging, if it is stacked ona shelf or in a drawer. The first and second outer part may compriseembossed surface relief and/or graphical printings on one or moresurfaces both outside and/or inside the packaging.

The packaging may be adapted to comprise and accommodate a memoryelement readable by a computer, such as a memory card.

In some embodiments the surface relief is embossed with a device forprocessing a substrate, said device having a tool plan and a reactionplan, the tool plan comprising a multiple layer construction with:

-   -   a core having a substantially inflexible outer surface, and    -   at least one tool being attached to the surface of the core,        wherein flexible force absorbing means is provided in at least a        part of the tool plan and/or the reaction plan, so as to locally        absorbing the forces applied by the planes. The flexible force        absorbing means may be a double-sided adhesive tape, which is        used to attach a tool to the tool plan. The flexible properties        of the tape are used to absorb local differences in the pressure        applied. The method of embossing may be the one described in        PCT/DK02/00787, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The inner part i.e. one of the sides may be substantially transparent.Thus a decoration or a surface relief may be visible from both sidesthrough the transparent material. This makes it possible to seeinformation provided on the inside or outside surface of the first andsecond outer part. In order to provide further visual effects the innerpart can comprise a transparent colour. In some areas the colour may besolid i.e. such that it is not possible to see through the colour whilein other areas the colour may be transparent. If e.g. a surface reliefis provided on the inner surface of the first and second outer part thenthe transparent colour may give the visual effect of colouring of someof the areas of the surface relief. Colours may further be provided onthe surface relief and/or the decoration. Thus the designer will beprovided with the possibility of providing colour directly over thedecoration and/or surface relief. Another option is that he may providethe colours distanced from the decoration and/or surface relief byproviding it on the inner part. The inner part may be provided withtext, logos, marks, frosting/grinding, super transparent surfaces, or itmay be decorated, provided with labels, holograms or metal layers.

According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to aretaining member for retaining a data carrying medium comprising acentral hole in a packaging, the member comprising a plurality of tapsadjacently arranged on a circle on a base part and surrounding a releasetap, the taps being adapted to engage an edge of said hole, the tapsbeing elevated positioned in relation to said base part, such that thetaps are adapted to be released from the medium upon pushing the releasetap towards said base part.

Preferably, the medium comprises a CD or DVD, and the retaining membermay be adapted to retain one, two or three stacked CD's or DVD's.

According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to apackaging adapted to store an element, the packaging comprising one ormore outer parts and one inner part, the inner part comprising a firstside and a second side interconnected by a hinging part, and wherein anouter part is attached to the first and/or second side, respectively.

The outer parts may be attached to the sides, respectively, by means ofglue and/or welding and/or a snap-lock, or they may be integrated withthe inner part by means of moulding, curling, bending or likewise.

The inner part may be made of plastic, such as transparent plastic orcoloured plastic, and the outer parts may be made of metal.

The inner part may comprise indentations along a circumference forreceiving corresponding protrusions provided on the outer parts, so asto provide a click-on attachment therebetween. The outer parts arepreferably U-shaped, the legs of the U-shape comprising saidprotrusions. Thus, the outer parts are clicked on to the inner partwhich may be an inner part according to the invention, or another innerpart.

The inner part may comprise recesses on each side having a shape anddepth substantially corresponding to the shape and thickness of theouter parts, respectively.

The shape of the outer parts is provided by bending or extruding.

The packaging according to each of the various aspects may comprise anyof the features mentioned in connection with the other aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

An embodiment of the invention will now be described in details withreference to the drawing in which:

FIG. 1 shows an open packaging,

FIG. 2 shows two closed packaging according to the present invention,

FIG. 3 shows a sectional view of the packaging,

FIGS. 4-9 show different embodiments of attachment of the first andsecond sides and outer first and second parts,

FIGS. 10-12 shows cross-sectional views of the packaging, and

FIGS. 13-22E shows pictures of the packaging,

FIG. 23 shows a packaging with preferred dimensions in order to bepacked in a packing machine,

FIG. 24 shows a prior art packaging, and

FIG. 25 shows an automated packing machine for packing the packagingaccording to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is shown a packaging 2 comprising an inner part with a first side4 and a second side 6 interconnected by a hinging part 8. The packaging2 is openable like a book and thus the sides 4 and 6 may be swung awayfrom each other like the covers of a book. A first outer part 10 isattached to the side 4 and a second outer part 12 is attached to theside 6. The side 4 further comprises a lower inner element 14, which isattached to the outer part 10. These two are glued together. In asimilar way the second side 6 comprises an upper inner element 16 gluedto the outer part 12. The outer part 10 and 12 are made of a metalmaterial and the inner parts 14 and 16 are made of a plastic material.The upper inner element 16 is adapted to store an optical element bymeans of engaging means 18. The engaging means 18 is circular in shapeand comprises an outer ring 20 and a retaining element in the centre ofsaid ring (not shown). The outer ring 20 comprises an indentation 22,which makes it easier to grab the storage medium. The lower innerelement 14 comprises longitudinal reinforcing 24 bar and a latitudinalreinforcing bar 26. The lower inner element 14 furthermore comprises twoholding members 28 which are adapted to hold an element e.g. a bookletcomprising information about the optical storage medium. The lower part4 and the upper part 6 comprises handling indentations 30 which the usermay use when the packaging is to be opened like a book. When opening thestorage medium 2 the male locking member 32 disengages the femalelocking member 34.

FIG. 2 shows two packaging 2 comprising a first side 4, a second side 6and a hinging part 8. The packaging furthermore comprise handlingindentations 30.

FIG. 3 shows a sectional view of the packaging 2, comprising a firstside 4, a second side 6 and a hinging part 8. The figure shows theholding member 28, which is movable as shown by arrow 36. The malelocking member 32 comprises a protruding part 38 which is adapted toengage the edge 40 of the female locking member 34. The handlingindentations 30 are seen on the figure.

FIG. 4-9 shows different embodiments of first and/or second outer parts42 having a middle part 44. The parts are made of a metal material,which is bend so as to provide a first flange 46 extending transverse oreven perpendicular to the middle part 44. In some embodiments the firstflange 46 is furthermore bend so as to define a second flange 48 whichan inner element 54 must pass in order to be removed from the outer part42, see FIGS. 7-9. In other embodiments the first flange 46 or thesecond flange 48 defines a curled edge portion 50. Yet in otherembodiments the first flange 46 defines a protrusion 52. The protrusion52, the curled edge portion 50 and the second flange 48 may be adaptedto retain an inner element 54. In some embodiments the second flange 48is provided along the entire periphery of the flange 46 as shown in FIG.7 (A-A′) and FIG. 8. In other embodiments the second flange 48 isprovided in different locations along the first flange 48 as shown inFIG. 7 (B-B′) and FIG. 9.

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the side of the inner part 60(such as the upper part 6 of FIG. 1) of the packaging 2 comprising anretaining member for engaging and retaining a CD or DVD. The retainingmember has a plurality of retaining taps 55 adjacently arranged on acircle and surrounding a “release tap” 56. The taps 55 are adapted toengage an edge of a hole of a CD or DVD. The taps 55,56 are positionedelevated 57 in relation to the base 58 of the inner part, so that thetaps may disengage said hole by pushing downwards on the release tap andthereby releasing the CD or DVD from the taps.

The engaging means further comprises a plurality of half-circles 59 thatencircles the CD or DVD.

The edge portion 61 of the outer part 62 holds the inner part 60, andthe sidewall of the inner part 60 comprises reinforcement ribs 63.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of an open packaging comprising tosides 64 and 65 and a hinge part 66. One single inner part 60constitutes both the left, right side and hinging part of the packaging.An outer metallic part 62 is attached onto one of the two sides of theinner part, and an outer metallic part 67 is attached to the hinge partof the inner part. Each of the outer metallic parts 62 comprises an edgeportion 68 that constitutes the back edge of the packaging. The hingingpart 66 is displaced a distance from the level of the metallic parts 62such that when the packaging is closed, the hinging part 66 will be inline with the corners 69 of the metallic parts. When opening thepackaging 2, the male locking member 32 disengages the female lockingmember 34. The hinging part comprises a reinforcement rib 70.

There is provided a small space between the outer parts 62 and the innerpart 60 in order to provide space for embossed relief in the outerparts.

FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the holding member 28, which ismovable as shown by the arrow 36.

FIGS. 13 shows the packaging in open condition.

FIGS. 14-15 shows the packaging in a closed condition from the front andbackside, respectively. The back part 71 of the inner part composes thehinge connection between the two sides, and the back part is covered bya metal part/layer 72. As shown, the back edge is displaced inwardstowards to internal area of each two side of the inner part so that theback part 71 be on level with the outermost edge 73 of the back side ofthe packaging when the packaging is closed. The handgrips 76 for openingthe packaging are provided in the outer parts 62.

FIG. 16 shows the inner part 60 detached from the outer parts 62 and themetal layer 72.

FIG. 17 and 17A shows an inner part 60 detached from the outer parts 62,the outer parts comprising two U-shaped metal parts, which are clickedon to the inner part. The inner part 60 has indentations 74, which thelegs 75 of the U-shaped metal parts may grip into when clicking themonto there.

FIG. 18 shows an open packaging, where the outer parts 62 are clicked onto the inner part 60. A plurality of packaging stacked next to eachother are also shown.

FIGS. 19-20 shows an open packaging, where the outer part 62 is clickedon to the inner part 60. As shown the packaging is opened like a bookwith an angle (α) of more than 180°, preferably 240°. Thus, it ispossible to put the packaging into a conventional packing machine forpacking it.

FIG. 21 shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the packagingcomprising an inner part with two sides 64, 65 and a back part 71defining the hinging part with two hinges 77, one for each side of theinner part. The hinges 77 each defines a groove 78, said grooves beingprovided for clicking first and second outer parts 79 onto the innerpart, as protrusion 80 provided as a bent edge on each outer may enterand engage the grooves 77, respectively. Also a metal layer /part (notshown) covering the back part may be attached to the back part by clickon. Thus, any sharp edges on said outer parts and metal part/layer maybe hidden or surrounded by said groove, and thus no sharp edges can beseen and touched. Preferably, the grooves extend along the entire lengthof the hinges so that the protrusions 80 may extend along the entirelength of the edge of the outer parts and/or metal layer/part whichreinforces said parts.

As seen in FIG. 21, when opening the packaging with an angle of 180° asshown, the level of the back part 71 between the two hinges is higherthan the level of the two sides 64, 65 of the inner part. Thisembodiment provides that the back part may be displaced more inwardstowards the internal of the packaging when the packaging is closed,which then increases the strength and provides a more smooth finishwhere the inner part is better covered by the outer metal parts.

FIGS. 22A-E shows an embodiment of the packaging according to theinvention. The inner part 60 comprises locking pins 81 provided asprotrusions for locking the first and second part 62 to the inner part60. Said pins 81 are provided on the inner part 60 at the locationadjacent to the indentations 82 on the first and second part 62, whichdefines the handgrips for opening the packaging. The pins 81 engage anedge portion 83 of the first and second part, respectively, in order toprovide a lock therebetween, and thus prevent that the first and secondparts 62 detach from the inner part 60 by accident.

FIG. 23 shows a packaging with preferred dimensions in order to bepacked in an automated packing machine. Thus, the packaging according tothe invention has been developed in order to fulfil these dimensions,said dimensions being preferably;

A: from 282 mm to 284 mm,

B: 191 mm ±0.8 mm,

C: 135.6 mm +0.9/−0.5,

D: 15 mm ±0.5, and

E: from 68.7 mm to 70.3 mm.

FIG. 24 shows a prior art packaging. The packaging is an example of theknown packages, which cannot be bent more than approximately 190° (α)and not up to 240°, and thus, it cannot be packed in an usual automatedpacking machine, as the packaging according to the invention.

FIG. 25 shows an automated packing machine (Ilsemann) for packing apackaging 2 according to the invention. The empty packaging 2 is storedin a container 84 from where the packaging 2 is loaded to the conveyor85. The packaging 2 is opened within an angle of approximately 180° andthereafter, a CD or DVD and other material is introduced into thepackaging 2 by a rotating packing module 86 in which module 86 thepackaging 2 is bent backwards into an angle of more than 180°,preferably 240°.

At the end of the conveyor 85, the packaging is closed and packedtogether with the other packaging and stacked in piles 87.

1. A packaging comprising; first and second outer parts of metallicmaterial, an inner part of non-metallic material made in one piece andcomprising; first and second opposed sides between which an element canbe stored, a hinging part forming at least one hinge connecting saidsides and allowing the sides to be rotated relative to each other withinan angle so as to open the packaging and adapting the packaging forpacking in an automated packing machine, at least a part of a perimeterof the first and second outer parts being adapted to retain the innerpart in order to attach said outer parts to said respective sides ofsaid inner part for covering a substantial part of the outer surfaces ofthe sides.
 2. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the width of thepackaging is between 134 mm and 138 mm, and the length of the packagingis between 188 mm and 194 mm when packaging is in a closed condition. 3.A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the width of the packaging isbetween 280 mm and 286 mm in an open condition where the sides arerotated 180° relative to each other.
 4. A packaging according to claim1, wherein the hinge allows the sides to be rotated relative to eachother within an angle of 180° or more.
 5. A packaging according to claim1, wherein at least a part of the perimeter of the first and secondouter parts comprises at least one of a curled edge portion and a flangeextending transverse to a plane defined by a middle part of the parts.6. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the first and second sidescomprise indentations along a perimeter for receiving correspondingprotrusions provided on said first and second outer parts so as toprovide the attachment between said sides and said outer parts.
 7. Apackaging according to claim 1, wherein the first and second outer partsdefine a U-shaped cross-section, the legs of the U-shape comprisingprotrusions for retaining the inner part.
 8. A packaging according toclaim 1, wherein the inner part is attached to the first and secondouter parts by means of glue and/or welding and/or at least onesnap-lock.
 9. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the inner partis integrated with the first and second outer parts by means ofmoulding.
 10. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the inner partcomprises one or more locking pins provided as protrusions so as to lockthe first and second outer parts to the inner part.
 11. A packagingaccording to claim 1, wherein a back part of the inner part comprisesthe hinging part between the two sides, the back part being covered by ametal part/layer.
 12. A packaging according to claim 11, wherein a backedge of the inner part is displaced inwards towards to internal area ofthe inner part so that said back part be on level with an outermost edgeof the back side of the packaging when the packaging is closed.
 13. Apackaging according to claim 11, wherein the metal part/layer coveringthe back part comprises slips bent around an upper and lower edge of theback part in order to attach the metal part/layer.
 14. A packagingaccording to claim 1, wherein the hinging part comprises two hinges, onefor each side of the inner part.
 15. A packaging according to claim 14,wherein the two hinges each defines a groove on a backside of thepackaging, said grooves being adapted to engage with correspondingprotrusions on the first and second outer parts and/or metal layer/partfor attaching these to the inner part.
 16. A packaging according toclaim 1, wherein the inner part comprises a retaining member adapted tobe moved between a retaining position wherein the retaining memberretains the element to be stored in a predetermined position and anon-retaining position wherein the element is not retained.
 17. Apackaging according to claim 16, further comprising a security memberadapted to retain the retaining member in the retaining position.
 18. Apackaging according to claim 17, wherein the security member comprisessignal emitting means.
 19. A packaging according to claim 18, whereinthe signal emitting means is adapted to emit electromagnetic signalsand/or magnetic fields.
 20. A packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe element to be stored comprises a data-carrying element.
 21. Apackaging according to claim 20, wherein the data-carrying elementcomprises a centre hole.
 22. A packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe inner part comprises a fixture for the data-carrying element.
 23. Apackaging according to claim 1, wherein the diameter of the element tobe stored is between 119.7 and 120.3 millimetres or between 78.8 and80.2 millimetres.
 24. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein athickness of the packaging is between 14.7 and 15.3 millimetres.
 25. Apackaging according to claim 1, wherein the first and/or second outerpart comprises a decoration.
 26. A packaging according to claim 1,wherein the first and/or second outer part comprises a surface relief,comprising one of a hologram, a grating, and a picture.
 27. A packagingaccording to claim 26, wherein the surface relief is embossed in thesurface of the outer parts.
 28. A packaging according to claim 26,wherein the surface relief is embossed with a device for processing asubstrate, said device having a tool plan and a reaction plan, the toolplan comprising a multiple layer construction with: a core having asubstantially inflexible outer surface, and at least one tool beingattached to the surface of the core, wherein flexible force absorbingmeans is provided in at least a part of the tool plan and/or thereaction plan, so as to locally absorbing the forces applied by theplanes.
 29. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the inner part issubstantially transparent.
 30. A packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe inner part comprises a transparent colour.
 31. A packaging accordingto claim 1, wherein a part of the perimeter of the first and secondouter parts comprises indentations to be used for opening the packaging.32. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the firstand second sides and hinging part comprises one or more protrusionsadapted to push the stored element towards the first or second side ofthe inner part, when the packaging is closed.
 33. A packaging accordingto claim 1, wherein the first and second sides comprise guiding membersfor guiding the two sides in relation to each other upon closing thepackaging.
 34. A packaging according to claim 33, wherein the first sideof the inner part comprises a guiding member comprising a male memberhaving a tapered end adapted to engage into a female member positionedon the second side of the inner part.
 35. A packaging according to claim1, wherein a part of the first and/or second outer part comprisesembossed surface relief indicating the content of the packaging.
 36. Apackaging according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the inner partand the first and second outer parts comprises locking means for keepingthe packaging in a closed position.
 37. A packaging according to claim36, wherein the locking means comprises at least one of magnets andmale/female locking means.
 38. A packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe inner part is made of plastic.
 39. A packaging according to claim 1,wherein the first and second outer parts are made of steel, tin oraluminum.
 40. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the first andsecond outer parts comprise a decorative metallic or non-metallic layer.41. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein the inner part comprisesrecesses on each side having a shape and depth substantiallycorresponding to the shape and thickness of the first and second outerparts respectively.
 42. A packaging according to claim 1, wherein theshape of the first and second outer parts are provided by bending orextruding or deep drawing.
 43. A packaging according to claim 1, whereinthe first and second outer parts together cover the entire outer surfaceof the sides of the inner part, respectively.
 44. A packaging accordingto claim 1, wherein the hinging part allows the sides to be rotatedrelative to each other within an angle of 200° or more.
 45. A packagingaccording to claim 1, wherein the inner part comprises a plurality ofretaining members provided on the first and/or second side for retainingelements.
 46. A retaining member for retaining an optical storing mediumcomprising a central hole in a packaging, the member comprising aplurality of taps adjacently arranged on a circle on a base part andsurrounding a release tap, the taps being adapted to engage an edge ofsaid hole, the taps being elevated positioned in relation to said basepart, such that the taps are adapted to be released from the medium uponpushing the release tap towards said base part.
 47. A retaining memberaccording to claim 46, wherein the medium comprises a CD or DVD.
 48. Aretaining member according to claim 47, wherein the retaining member isadapted to retain one, two or three stacked CD's or DVD's.
 49. Aretaining member according to claim 46 and used in a packaging accordingto claim 1.